2012 Buyer's Guide: Aerodynamic Bikes

Specialized Venge Pro SRAM Red - $6,400

10 / 11

Development on the Venge commenced in 2006. Specialized thought it had a viable design in ’09, only to be rebuffed by international racing regulations. Twenty-one trips to five wind tunnels later, the Venge was unveiled to much ballyhoo in 2011. Indeed, the new bike was fast, enough for sprinter Mark Cavendish to ride it to numerous WorldTour wins. A one-piece bottom bracket-chainstay increases pedaling efficiency. Internal cable routing and wispy Roval Rapide EL 45 wheels reduce drag. The semicompact 52/36 chainring paired with a SRAM 11-28 cassette engenders high-cadence spinning. Six sizes (49cm to 61cm) help riders find the right fit.